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Photos: Ash Wednesday at Holy Family Church in South Pasadena

One of the holiest days in the Christian calendar that marks a season of penance and reflection. Christians around the world observe Ash Wednesday today marking the first day of Lent, a period of fasting, prayer and repentance based on the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert. Lent ends with the Celebration of Easter. Ash Wednesday was marked two days after Pope Benedict XVI’s announced his decision to retire on Feb. 28 2013.